Rapper Coolio Fights Global Warming With HBCU Education

Rapper/ reality star Coolio and jazz saxophonist, Jarez are among artists recently enlisted as spokespersons for the Environmental Justice and Climate Change's (EJCC) campaign to educate students at Historically Black College and University's (HBCU) about the global warming crisis, EJCC director, Nia Robinson announced today.

“Our goal is to engage a diverse group of black youth in the fight for climate justice,” says Robinson. “Whether they are old school hip-hop fans, jazz enthusiasts, or among the neo-soul crew, we want them focused on climate change. EJCC is pleased to have Coolio and Jarez reaching out to their base to promote environmental sustainability.”

The campaign kicked off July 11, 2008 on “Just Environment,” an EJCC sponsored urban talk radio program that will integrate diverse perspectives on environmental issues and underscore EJCC's campaign efforts. Broadcasting weekly at noon on WCLK 91.9, “The Jazz of the City,” and live online at www.wclk.com, the radio show will feature informative discussions of problems and solutions for healthy, sustainable lifestyles. The jazz stylings of Jarez, from his CD release “To the Top” will provide the musical signature for the show.

The EJCC HBCU Initiative — a partnership with former Vice President Al Gore's Alliance for Climate Protection's “We” campaign — will use unique voices to encourage black youth to engage in the climate change discussion. EJCC will train and organize students on black college campuses to promote the greening of university grounds, grow support for climate justice, and encourage HBCU presidents to sign on to a Presidents Climate Commitment.

“The effects of climate change fall disproportionately on people of color, Indigenous Peoples, and low-income communities,” says Robinson. “Black students must be on the frontlines educating their communities and contributing to the policy debate.”